Aruba - One Happy Island 

De Palm Island 

Aruba, located in the Southern Caribbean, consistently ranks as having the least rainfall in the Caribbean. The peaceful trade winds will keep you cool in the pleasant 82-degree weather. Because the island is located outside the hurricane belt, one can expect reliably great weather throughout the year. I felt incredibly safe while on the island. English is spoken everywhere and they accept US Dollars.  

The island is vibrant and alive with sights, sounds, and a plethora of exquisite culinary options. You can choose from a wide variety of cuisine, including red snapper, Mahi-mahi, rich Latin and African flavors, and small local gems. 

The locals are friendly and welcome guests with open arms. The island boasts the name “One Happy Island,” and it truly is. Aruba is a perfect destination for those wanting more action than other islands. You can experience the nightlife, delectable dining, water sports, shopping, and beautiful beaches on this incredible island. It is far from a sleepy island. 

There is no shortage of activities on the island. One can experience: 

-UTV and Jeep Tours 

-Boating 

-Parasailing 

-Submarine

-And much more 

And if you love to be in the water, you can experience jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling, water tubing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding, to name a few.  

There are fabulous resorts to choose from. I had the opportunity to visit The Ritz Carlton, Hyatt Regency, and Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. Which one is best for you? Contact me at jessica@runwaytravelco.com for options.

Two Sides to Tucson

The Covid-19 pandemic has been incredibly devastating for the travel industry. For my family and me, it was time to get back on an airplane and have an adventure so during the week between Christmas and New Years, we flew to Tucson, Arizona to have a ranch adventure. 

From the start, the airport and airlines made me feel very comfortable and safe flying due to the mask mandate, social distance guidelines, and enhanced precautionary measures. We landed at the Tucson International Airport and drove north to the White Stallion Ranch where we spent 6 wonderful nights and loved every moment of it! 

There is something for everyone at White Stallion Ranch. We participated in archery, rode e-bikes, shot shotguns, and wrangled cattle. One of my favorite, recurring activities was the daily trail rides. I truly appreciated that, throughout our stay, we had the same horses! The cowboys and horses were amazing and every person was matched with a horse that fit the individual’s experience level. My horse’s name was Vex, I grew to love him and hope to see him again. It’s hard to describe how beautiful a desert sunset is, especially while being out with the horses providing them their evening feeding. The horses’ health and well being are the top priority at White Stallion Ranch, they get every Sunday off to rest! 

This was the perfect “Covid-19” vacation due to most of the activities being outdoors where there was plenty of social distancing...even at meal time. Speaking of meals - the food was incredible! I truly felt rested and at peace during my visit. 

If being at a ranch isn’t your cup of tea but you would still like a southwestern US experience, The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain in Marana, AZ has the luxury you are looking for! Here you can still enjoy the activities of the area - Jeep and UTV tours, hiking, biking, horseback riding, tennis, golf, spa, and star gazing to name a few. As always, there are special amenities when you book through Runway Travel Co: 

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom, in restaurant or room service (up to $65 USD per bedroom)

• $100 USD Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

We may not be able to travel internationally yet, but remember there are plenty of fabulous domestic destinations to suit your needs and travel type here in the beautiful US. Let us know when you are ready to travel and enjoy the great outdoors; Runway Travel will lead the way for you!

Contact us - Jessica@runwaytravelco.com
Instagram - Runwaytravelco

Charleston & Kiawah – the perfect city & beach combination

 

2020 has presented many obstacles while traveling and like many others, I was looking for a summer vacation that my family and I could feel safe while still practicing social distancing. As an active traveler, it was time to break out of the house! When deciding what type of vacation to plan, I wanted a destination that was within a day's drive and Charleston and Kiawah fit the bill. These are two destinations that I have always wanted to visit and this was the perfect opportunity.

 

Private Carriage Ride 

We left DC and drove directly to Charleston with our dog, Ginger, in tow. There are so many amazing Virtuoso hotels in Charleston. I chose Belmond Charleston Place because of the beauty, history, and that they are pet friendly. I must say, Ginger loved her first experience in a luxury hotel!

Charleston is an incredible city with all of its history, culture, shopping, amazing food, and sightseeing. One of our favorite activities was a private carriage ride through the charming downtown streets. We learned about the history of Charleston while remaining socially distant. This is a city ready for travelers.

After a wonderful stay in downtown Charleston, we drove 45 minutes South to Kiawah Island. While Kiawah is one of my most popular destinations to book, it still somehow exceeded all of my expectations. It is the perfect destination for couples and families to celebrate any occasion. There are endless activities for the entire family to take part in to include archery lessons, fishing expeditions, dolphin watching, and sunset kayaking. It goes without saying that the miles of beaches and unbelievable dining experiences will make any event an unforgettable one. On Kiawah you have an option for the beautiful Sanctuary Hotel (Enjoy breakfast and resort credit on us though Virtuoso!) or a home rental.    

   I saw 4 of our Virtuoso hotels in Charleston and don't forget the Virtuoso benefits at these hotels in addition to my planning expertise.  Contact me at jessica@mccabworld.com.

Sailing into 2020

You don't think cruising is right for you? You might be right… but you might want to reconsider and look at cruising in a different light.  I do love a great Caribbean cruise with fun in the sun, delicious umbrella cocktails, and excellent entertainment... but cruising can be so much more than that!

Ships come in all shapes and sizes; from mega massive ships to very small intimate exploration ships that sail everywhere from Antarctica and the Galapagos.  Cruising is a fantastic way to travel with multi-generational families and friends because everybody can explore ports with their own interests and travel at their own pace but always reunite together for dinner.  

Recently, my family and friends journeyed on a sailing from Dover, England to amazing ports such as Copenhagen, Stavanger, and Amsterdam.  For this particular adventure, I  viewed my stateroom as a spacious ocean front bedroom where I got to explore Europe without having to unpack and re-pack over and over again. Through my local contacts, we explored these amazing cities in-depth and had a private hike in Norway which will never be forgotten.

Here are some highlights on my trip:

-Two nights in London exploring this fabulous city  

-Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam followed by a private tour and painting like "Van Gogh" experience

- Touring Copenhagen and playing all afternoon at the Tivoli Gardens

- Private hike up Lysefjord

Sailing Northern Europe was an amazing way to spend our summer vacation. If you think you are interested in a sailing for next year now is the time to consider for the best pricing and inventory. I am here to consult with you on the best cruise line, destination, and ship for you.  

Reach out to me at Jessica@mccabeworld.com or 703-762-5056. I am looking forward to planning your next adventure!

Magical Munich

The Christmas tree is down and we are officially in the middle of winter. Instead of the winter blues, I wanted to take a moment to reflect back on my favorite 2018 holiday memory...the German Christmas Markets.

I took my family to Munich for three perfect nights to get us in the holiday spirit. I admit, a bit extreme for holiday shopping, but worth the flight and every moment.

Three perfect days in Munich:

Day 1 – After a direct flight we transferred to the hotel. We spent the night wandering the beautiful streets of Munich and had a great meal at Spatenhaus an der Oper for some local favorites. I highly recommend the potato soup.

Day 2 –

I enlisted the services of my favorite German supplier to provide us with a full day tour to Bavaria. Our guide met us in the lobby of our hotel and then we drove the scenic drive on the famous “Romantic Road” to visit the fairy take castle of Neuschwanstein. Fun fact: This castle was the inspiration for the castle at Disneyland.  How do you get to the castle? You take a horse and carriage, of course! After we toured this ornate castle, we visited the adorable of Oberammergau, home of the “Passion Play.” This charming village with many woodcarver stores is brilliant during the Christmas Season.

Our last stop was to Steingaden to see the Wieskirche (Pilgrimage Church of Wies), which became UNESCO Heritage site in 1983.

Day 3 –  We took the train to Salzburg, Austria, for another perspective of the Christmas Markets. This was a truly magical day to include a horse and carriage ride, ice skating, more Gluhwein and  shopping for treasures.

Day 4 – We spent our last morning back at the Munich markets taking in as much Gluhwein and last minute shopping as possible before we head to the airport.

It truly was a magical getaway for my family.  Yes it is a long way to go for three nights, but I would encourage everybody to take advantage of long weekend getaways. Three nights is a perfect amount of time to really explore a new city. 

If you have a few days to spend in December there is no better way to get in the holiday spirit. Contact me at jessica@mccabeworld.com for more details and ideas.  

Aspen!

I have found myself in Colorado for the second time this year.  This time I experienced the laid back and charming town of Aspen.  

Maroon Bells

Getting there, I would suggest flying right into Aspen and there are now more and more connecting flights with many more routes to come.   Once you land, you are just minutes away from this little piece of heaven.   You can also consider Eagle (about 70 miles away), Denver (220 miles away) or Grand Junction (130 miles away). 

Amazing biking! 

Aspen is a fantastic destination in the Spring, Summer, and Fall months – and of course Winter for amazing skiing and boarding.  With your ski pass you have access to four incredible mountains at all skill levels.  Because there are four mountains, skiers really get to spread out and, unlike other top ski destinations, you will rarely wait for a lift. Other winter activities include:  Alpine Coaster, Tubing, Snow Bike, Snowshoeing and Ice Skating in the Base Village. And getting to the slopes couldn't be easier.  Local transportation is convenient with free shuttle buses running continuously between all four mountains until 2:00 AM!   

Enjoying a local brew!

Outside of the winter months, there is no shortage of activities and there are loads of festivals and city events.  What to do? Give these activities a try - biking, hiking, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, paragliding, rafting & kayaking to name a few. 

Where to stay? Well you will just have to ask me what the right resort is for you.  I had the opportunity to see the Jerome, Little Nell, St. Regis and The Gant. Another fabulous option in the Viceroy Snowmass which is perfect for families.  Of course Virtuoso Amenities apply! 

John Denver Sanctuary

Top picks of what to do in Aspen:

Aspen Saturday Market - Enjoy local Colorado produce, crafts, live music and a food court Saturdays from 6/16 - 10/1.

John Denver Sanctuary - The Memorial features many of the singers' songs etched into the rocks.  Great place to pack a picnic! 

Maroon Bells -  The most photographed peaks in North America!   Absolutely stunning. 

Independence Pass - East of Aspen along the winding two lane Highway 82. Several stops along the way to include the 

Devil's Punchbowl, Independence Ghost Town and the Continental Divide at the top of the pass. 

Eat & Drink Outdoors - Apsen has an average of 300 days of sunshine annually  get outside and dine al fresco. I suggest trying a local brew! 

Want to travel to Aspen? Contact me - 703-762-5056 or jessica@mccabeworld.com. 

Gateway Canyons - A Colorado Adventure

Every year I am trying to experience something new in the United States.  Our country is filled with amazing destinations and resorts to choose from. This summer for the Fourth of July Weekend my family ventured to Grand Junction Colorado to experience Gateway Canyons. Getting there we connected via Denver to Grand Junction Colorado and then you have about an hour drive to the resort. The ride is beautiful and worth the journey once you get there. I recommend at least a four night stay for travelers from the East Coast. If you live in the Denver area this is a wonderful long weekend getaway.

This is a great resort for both couples and families. You are able to relax in your spacious accommodations, some with outdoor hot tubs (highly recommended). The resort is equipped with complementary bike rentals for both adults and children to explore the resort. 

                                                      The activities are endless:

-Horseback Riding
-Clay Pigeon Shooting
-Archery Lessons
-UTV rides overlooking Rattlesnake Overlook
-Rock Climbing
-Dinosaur Tracks & Geology Tour

We had a blast with all of the activities, but my favorites had to be the Archery Lessons and the Dinosaur Tracks. Archery was a new sport for my family that we all got to experience together. It just might be my new favorite hobby. The Dinosaur Tracks was incredibly educational and interesting. It held the interests of even our youngest traveler.

Gateway is also home to an Auto Museum and home of the one of a kind 1954 Oldsmobile F-88. My husband and son are big into cars (me, not so much) yet I found it incredibly interesting. It's definitely worth checking out. 

Gateway is also a 2.5 hour drive to some of our most beautiful National Parks and a great day trip. Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre & Gunnison National Forests (1.5 hours away), Arches National Park

(2.5 hours away) and Canyonlands National Park (2.5 hours away). After you are done exploring come back and relax with a spa treatment and then experience the wonderful dining the resort has to offer.

Contact me for more information and enjoy these added values booking through McCabe World Travel:

-Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

-Full American breakfast daily, served in restaurant (shows as a credit of $60 on your folio – breakfast is amazing)

-One $100 USD per room/per day Adventure Credit that can be used for any activities booked directly with the Adventure Center. 

-Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

-Complimentary Wi-Fi